Bringing Home Baby ... The Essentials
Expecting? Know someone who is? If standing in a mega baby store leaves you feeling more overwhelmed than excited, this article is for you! What do you really need? Here are a few tried and true essentials.
1. Baby Carrier: Find a good baby carrier. One that is comfortable and supports you. Yes, you will enjoy sitting for hours and cuddling your newborn, but occasionally, you may just need to use two hands (to eat a bowl of cereal, brush your teeth, etc.). You will be amazed with all that you will be able to get done while still bonding with your new little treasure.
2. Purrell or other hand sanitizer: Sometimes, getting to the sink can be a challenge. Keep a bottle of sanitizer at the end of the changing table (but be sure to keep out of reach of your little one!).
3. The Boppy pillow: This gem is such a simple concept, but makes life a bit more comfortable, especially when breastfeeding. As a writer, I must guiltily admit that my "bean" snuggled in the Boppy, nursing away, while I typed away on the laptop in those early months. The Boppy pillow made it all possible!
4. A bouncy chair or swing: Getting a shower every day can be a big accomplishment in early mommyhood! A portable gadget like a bouncy chair or swing will keep your little one close to you so that you can keep your eye on them. Sometimes, you just need two hands and your little one needs a safe, comfortable place where they can see you. Find something that works for you, whether it is a bouncy chair, swing, or play-yard.
5. The other essentials, you just can't buy: Get some sleep, take care of yourself (exercise, good food and all that other fun stuff) and have some fun (don't take yourself or the role of parenthood too seriously!).
Good luck, have fun, and remember to enjoy the ride!
